Omar Abdullah Warns Against Provocative Remarks
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday advised members of the Assembly to avoid making statements on religious issues that could hurt people’s sentiments. He emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and ensuring that all voices are heard in the government.
Highlights:
Call for Restraint on Religious Remarks:
- Abdullah’s remarks came after BJP leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma used the term “legislative Jihad” during a debate in the Assembly.
- The chief minister criticized the use of such terms, urging restraint in political discussions involving religious matters.
“They are using the word Jihad in everything, but they get upset if others make remarks about their religion. It is better to avoid comments that hurt religious sentiments,” Abdullah said.
Assembly Tensions:
- The Assembly witnessed noisy scenes when BJP members accused AAP legislator Mehraj Malik of using derogatory remarks against Hindus.
- Malik clarified that his comments about liquor consumption at festivals were taken out of context and were meant to highlight the rise in liquor shops in Jammu.
Response to Migration Remarks:
- In response to LoP Sunil Sharma’s comment that people from Haryana were welcome in J&K, Abdullah remarked, “I have no objection if he settles them at his own home in Kishtwar.”
Condolences Over BJP Leader’s Death:
The chief minister expressed grief over the alleged suicide of BJP leader and former independent MLA from Gurez, Faqeer Mohammad Khan, in Srinagar.
“It is very unfortunate. We do not know what led him to take such an extreme step, but we extend our condolences to his family and pray for his soul,” Abdullah said. He mentioned that Khan allegedly used his personal security officer’s rifle.
- Religion World Bureau
